THE 2025 WORLD VOCATIONAL COLLEGE COMPETITION AFRICA REGION OPENING CEREMONY – Friday 5th September 2025
Minister of Technology and Science Hon Felix Chipota Mutati was the keynote speaker at Sino-Zam Vocational College of Science and Technology in Luashya on the Copperbelt Province.The Theme of this prestigious event was “Skilled Youth, Shining Future”
1. Gratitude and Acknowledgment:
– Mr. Mutati expressed his appreciation to Sino-Zam Vocational College, the Beijing Municipal Education Commission, and other sponsors for hosting the event.
– He acknowledged the presence of esteemed delegates, educators, and youth participants from various countries.
2. Focus on Youth and Skills Development:
– Emphasized that skilled youth are pivotal to a brighter, more inclusive future.
– Highlighted the significance of the competition in promoting youth growth, international cooperation, and enhancing vocational education globally.
3. Africa’s Potential:
– Noted that over 60% of Africa’s population is under the age of 25, presenting a vast potential for problem-solving, entrepreneurship, and innovation.
– Stressed that while potential is abundant, practical skills are essential for transforming ambition into achievement.
4. Government’s Commitment:
– Reiterated the Zambian government’s dedication to skills acquisition as a means of empowering youth, integrated into the 8th National Development Plan.
– Promised support for Technical, Vocational, and Entrepreneurship Skills (TVET) development, emphasizing upskilling, re-skilling, mentorship, and apprenticeship.
5. New Perspective on Vocational Education:
– Declared that vocational and technical education are now central to the modern economy rather than an alternative.
– Vocational skills are essential for bridging education with employment across sectors such as renewable energy, agriculture, and technology.
6. Empowerment of Competitors:
– Encouraged competitors to view themselves as the future workforce of Africa, motivating them to be innovative, disciplined, and globally competitive.
– Asserted that the competition sends a powerful message: skills are as valuable as academic degrees.
Mr. Mutati concluded with a call to action for the youth, highlighting the importance of taking initiative to create opportunities for personal and collective advancement within Africa.
